Cyclotis Development Update: Q1 2026 — Aero Validation and Suspension Tuning

The first quarter of 2026 marked a pivotal milestone for the Cyclotis program. After eighteen months of simulation-only validation, the active aerodynamics stack was tested on a full rolling prototype for the first time at GVSC's 10-mile oval. All 23 independently actuated elements responded within spec across the full speed range — a result that surprised even our lead aero engineers given the number of control nodes involved.

Electromagnetic suspension development proceeded in parallel. Because the Cyclotis runs no conventional springs or dampers, the calibration process is fundamentally different from a conventional race car setup. Our controls engineers have been tuning the magnetic field maps that govern ride height and stiffness response — a process that relies more on firmware than on physical shims. Early results show body motion numbers the team describes as 'not physically possible on a passive system.'

Testing continues through Q2 2026. The next phase covers thermal validation of the four Schubox V-2 axial flux motors under sustained full-power output conditions. The Maelstrom V8 has already cleared its durability cycle — 200 hours at full boost with no bearing wear outside of factory tolerances. A full program update will follow after the Nürburgring shakedown scheduled for late May.